Opera enthusiasts from all over the world make the journey to Milan to attend premieres and guest appearances by renowned ensembles at the world-famous La Scala. The classic façade by Giuseppe Piermarini is in bold contrast with the grand interior. The opera house underwent renovations from 2002 to 2004, led by the Swiss architect Mario Botta, who redecorated the interior according to the original 1778 plans and updated the stage technology to modern standards.